A policy strategist, Baba Yusuf, has said that former Kano State Governor and senator, Rabiu Musa Kwankwaso, overestimated his political bargaining power in his reported engagement with the All Progressives Congress (APC).
Reports indicate that Kwankwaso allegedly sought extensive concessions from the APC, including control of 20 per cent of the party’s national structure, the vice-presidential slot, and an assured presidential ticket in 2031.
However, speaking during an interview with ARISE News on Friday, Yusuf described the alleged demands as excessive, arguing that the era of behind-the-scenes political godfatherism is gradually fading in Nigeria.
According to Yusuf, prevailing political realities suggest that Kwankwaso pushed his demands beyond acceptable limits, though he noted that the former governor’s own account of the negotiations should still be considered.
He explained that modern Nigerian politics has become increasingly transparent, with much of the political maneuvering now occurring in the public domain.
Yusuf further observed that the political landscape had already shifted against Kwankwaso, citing the loss of a key political ally—who also happens to be his son-in-law—to his longtime rival, former Kano State Governor Abdullahi Ganduje, and the APC.
Drawing comparisons with recent political developments in other states, Yusuf said the situation was not unprecedented.
He referenced similar power struggles in Rivers State, past political realignments in Kano, and tensions between Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki and former Kaduna State Governor Nasir El-Rufai, noting that such episodes highlight the importance of patience and long-term strategy in politics.
According to him, the unfolding events serve as a reminder to political actors that lasting influence often requires playing the long game rather than pushing immediate, far-reaching demands.
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